Easy Asian Cucumber Salad Recipe – Perfect For the Summer

There’s something magical about the crisp, refreshing crunch of an Asian Cucumber Salad that can transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Seoul or the serene gardens of Kyoto. As a recipe creator who has spent decades exploring the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine, I can confidently say that this dish is a quintessential example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re new to Asian recipes or a seasoned enthusiast, this Easy Asian Cucumber Salad will captivate your senses and elevate your meal repertoire.

Imagine thinly sliced cucumbers, glistening with a tangy, spicy dressing that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and umami flavors. This salad isn’t just a side dish; it’s a celebration of texture and taste that embodies the essence of Healthy Asian Recipes. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—perfect as a light lunch, a vibrant addition to your dinner spread, or even a star player in your Salad Meal Prep routine.

What makes this Asian Cucumber Salad truly special is its ability to cater to various dietary preferences without compromising on flavor. It’s a go-to for anyone embracing a Healthy Diet or seeking out delicious Veggie Delight options. With every bite, you’ll experience the delightful crunch of cucumbers paired with the aromatic punch of garlic, ginger, and chili—a combination that’s as invigorating as it is satisfying.

As we dive into this recipe, get ready to embrace the simplicity and elegance of Easy Asian cooking. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a quick weekday dinner or a festive gathering, it promises to deliver freshness and flavor in every forkful. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s embark on this culinary journey together, transforming humble cucumbers into a salad that’s anything but ordinary.

Stay tuned for a step-by-step guide that will have you whipping up this Asian Cucumber Salad in no time, ensuring your meals are as vibrant and flavorful as ever!

Easy Asian Cucumber Salad

Recipe by Mei LingCourse: SaladsDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

A refreshing and crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad with a tangy, spicy dressing that’s perfect as a side dish or light meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cucumbers (halved lengthwise, seeded, and thinly sliced)

• 2 teaspoons salt

• ½ cup rice vinegar

• ¼ cup white sugar

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional for heat)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

• 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts (optional for crunch)

Directions

• Prepare the Cucumbers:
  Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  Rinse the cucumbers under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
  
• Make the Dressing:
  In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, white sugar, sesame oil, chili oil (if using), soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar dissolves.
• Combine and Marinate:
  In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried cucumber slices with the dressing. Toss well to ensure the cucumbers are evenly coated.
  Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Final Touches:
  Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, and chopped peanuts (if using) over the salad.
  Toss gently to combine.
• Serve:
  Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal.